Instruction manual

PROFICIENCY IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN
FAST RESCUE BOATS
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water, gently remove wet clothing and cover the person with dry clothing or
blankets. Protect the victim from wind, especially around the head and neck.
Move them to a warm environment if possible and avoid re-exposure to the
cold. Warm compresses and warm (not hot) liquids that are non-alcoholic and
non-caffeinated also help to restore heat.
Other recommendations include applying hot water bottles (maximum
temperature of 115° F (46° C) or hot, damp cloths to the victim’s head, neck,
trunk, and groin (change the water periodically to ensure a constant
temperature). Exhale into the victim’s face as s/he inhales. Immerse the victim’s
trunk but keep the arms and legs out of a warm bath (maximum temperature of
115° F (46° C).
If you are helping a hypothermic person, be gentle; internal organs are
sensitive to physical shocks. The victim should remain as inactive as possible so
blood from their cold extremities won't reach their core too quickly. A cold heart is
particularly susceptible to ventricular fibrillation.
During all first aid efforts, watch for changes in the victim’s temperature and
vital signs. “After drop" is a danger when re-warming hypothermia victims
because cold blood in the extremities returns to the body core, lowering the core
temperature further.
Hypothermia victims with moderate to critical symptoms should see a medical
professional as soon as possible.
Symptoms Treatment
Mild Case: Body temperature is 97 - 93° F (36.1 - 33.9° C)
• Shivering
• Cold hands and feet
• Still alert and able to help
self
• Numbness in limbs, loss of
dexterity, clumsiness
• Pain from cold
• Prevent further heat loss.
• Allow body to re-warm itself.
• Warm, sweet drinks - no alcohol.
• Apply gentle heat source.
• Help victim exercise.
• Keep victim warm for several hours, with
head and neck covered.
Moderate Case: Body temperature is 93 – 90° F (33.9 – 32.2° C)
• Shivering may decrease or
stop
• Same as above, EXCEPT:
• Limit exercise.
• Offer warm, sweet liquids only if victim is
fully conscious, begins to re-warm, and is
able to swallow – no alcohol.
Severe Case: Body temperature is 90 – 82° F (32.2 – 27.8° C)
• Shivering decreases or
stops
• Confusion, abnormal
• Obtain medical advice/help as soon as
possible.
• Avoid jarring victim - rough handling may